The past few years have not been pleasant for Southern Thailand. The 2004 tsunami devastated the coastline, including beach Mecca Phuket. Muslim separatists have long been waging a battle against the government. They seek greater autonomy. Several bombing and gun battles have marked this conflict, keeping tourists on edge and, generally, out of the region.

Perhaps as a ploy to bolster tourism, the defense minister of Thailand has stated that hostilities are waning in the deep south.

Or perhaps the situation is actually improving. It is sometimes difficult to know.

Thailand's deep south is home to a dynamic mix of Thai and Malay culture. The fiery food and idyllic landscape would be major tourist draws. If only tourists weren't afraid of the conflict.